Gyfieithu i'r Cymraeg
(they have 24hr telephone helpline)
to the web site:
Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, the linings that surround and protect the brain. It can be caused by many different organisms including bacteria, viruses and fungi. Vaccines are the only way to prevent meningitis, and until we have vaccines to prevent all types you need to know the signs and symptoms to look out for and the action to take.
Septicaemia (blood poisoning) is caused when bacteria enter the bloodstream and multiply uncontrollably. Meningococcal bacteria can cause both meningitis and septicaemia. Together these are known as meningococcal disease.
Most cases of meningitis happen alone, but when there is a case of meningococcal
disease, there is a small chance that further cases can happen. To reduce the risk
of further cases people who have been in close contact may be offered antibiotics.
If you are concerned that you may have been in close contact with someone who has
meningococcal disease please call our 24-hour freephone helpline on 0800 028 18 28
(UK) or 1800 523 196 (Ireland).
Trust your instincts. If you suspect meningitis or septicaemia, get medical help immediately.
A rash that does not fade under pressure (see ‘The Glass Test’) is a sign of meningococcal septicaemia. This rash may begin as a few small spots anywhere on the body and can spread quickly to look like fresh bruises.
The spots or rash are caused by blood leaking into the tissues under the skin. They are more difficult to see on darker skin, so look on paler areas of the skin and under the eyelids. The spots or rash may fade at first, so keep checking.
However, if someone is ill or is obviously getting worse, do not wait for spots or a rash to appear. They may appear late or may not appear at all.
University Hospital of Wales
Heath Park
Cardiff
Tel: (029) 2074 7747
Royal Gwent Hospital
Cardiff Road
Newport
Tel: (01633) 234234